Ilia Topuria has adopted a new nickname, and it`s already generating a wide range of responses.
Not all of them are positive.
Formerly known as “El Matador,” Topuria has officially announced his new moniker: “La Leyenda,” which translates to “The Legend” in English.
The 28-year-old boasts an impressive professional record of 16-0, including an unblemished 8-0 run in the UFC, and currently holds the UFC featherweight title. His last two championship fights saw him deliver stunning knockouts against Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. Notably, Topuria is the only fighter to have defeated Volkanovski in the featherweight division and the sole fighter to finish Holloway with strikes.
Topuria is now planning a move to the 155-pound division to pursue a second title, and he`s capitalizing on this moment by rebranding himself ahead of a potential clash with Islam Makhachev. This change has been met with skepticism by some, as one commenter remarked, “He is good, but he is so lame.”
Explore more fan reactions to the newly christened “La Leyenda” below.
